Maybe you’re saying you want to lose weight, but actions toward your goal just aren’t happening. Maybe you’re feeling alone, frustrated or just burned out. These experiences are normal, but unless you fix what’s bogging you down, they’ll keep happening to you.
Why Accountability?
The saying goes that two heads are better than one. Having accountability on your wellness journey is having someone, or a team of trusted people, to keep you moving in the right direction. Speaking with them openly and honestly should compel you to grow and change.
So if you tend to keep to yourself and go at your journey with weight alone (because let’s face it — that’s easier sometimes), consider seeking an accountability partner or group to help. You might notice that’s the missing variable in your weight-loss and wellness equation.
Why Accountability Matters
Goal Setting
With the help of a spouse, friend, family member or even counselor, work together to create SMART goals. Smart goals are specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely. Making a list can feel overwhelming and confusing if you don’t know what you should be shooting for, so don’t be afraid to enlist help. Give your accountability partner(s) a copy of your list.
Record Keeping
If you have a nutrition and fitness plan, journaling your meals, snacks and workouts can help you see where you’ve fallen short (or what you did really well). Share this journal with your accountability partner(s) so they can help you identify any major gaps.
An Attitude of Togetherness
If your accountability partner has the same goals as you, it can make sticking to your plan a lot easier. Call them if you’re ever in a tough spot and need advice. Encourage them when they ask you for the same thing. Accountability can motivate both of you.
Milestone Celebrations
It’s easy to get caught up in thinking about how far we have left to go with our goals. But you shouldn’t gloss over celebrating your small victories! An accountability partner can be your biggest cheerleader and help you find the joy in every milestone you conquer.
Prioritization
A couple rounds of drinks after a long work day, or taking a Saturday noon nap vs hitting the gym, can sound pretty tempting when you’re unmotivated. A partner can help you recognize when your priorities might be sliding and encourage you to make a shift in focus.
Remember that as you search for your perfect accountability partner(s), look for someone you respect, who believes in you, and who isn’t afraid to challenge you. Teamwork works best when you recognize each other’s strengths and weaknesses and improve on them together. If you don’t have a loved one who comes to mind, also consider a counselor, life coach or other care provider.
